Wednesday, July 19, 2023

Producer and Binnelanders actor Bradley Olivier on life support, family says 'recovery is no longer possible'.


by Thinus Ferreira

The well-known Binnelanders actor Bradley Olivier (36) who was also a producer, is on life support following an expected heart attack but according to his family recovery "is no longer possible".

It's not clear what led to Bradley Olivier's hospitalisation on Monday.

Namibia's Die Republikein newspaper on Tuesday afternoon first erroneously reported the "death" of Bradley Olivier who was known for his role as paramedic Danny Jantjies in Binnelanders produced by Stark Films at Stark Studios in Johannesburg.

That death report was then picked up by multiple other news outlets who referenced the original without getting their own confirmation.

TVwithThinus reached out to Stark Films, as well as kykNET for comment but kykNET didn't want to confirm Bradley Olivier's death and on Wednesday morning still didn't want to respond to basic media queries to confirm that the actor had died.

On Wednesday afternoon kykNET said that family spokesperson Solomon Cupido issued a statement.

Solomon Cupido in the statement on behalf of the family says that "It is with profound sadness that we confirm that Bradley Olivier is currently on life support after being admitted on Monday evening".

"Bradley Olivier has been an extraordinary presence in our lives, known for his talent, achievements, and dedication to his craft. He has touched the hearts of many around the county, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and the community."

"Over the past 2 days Bradley Olivier has been receiving the best possible medical care and attention from Life Flora hospital. Despite their tireless efforts, it has become evident that he has reached a point where recovery is no longer possible."

"We ask that you respect the family’s privacy during this immensely difficult time and allow us to grieve in peace."

"Bradley Olivier's legacy will live on through his body of work, which has touched countless lives and will continue to inspire future generations. We kindly request that you celebrate his life by remembering the joy and happiness he brought to the world."

"As we navigate through this trying period, let us stand together as a community, offering support, compassion, and understanding to one another. Together, we can honour Bradley’s memory and the positive impact he has had on our lives."

"We extend our deepest gratitude to the medical professionals who cared for Bradley during this challenging time. Their dedication and expertise have been invaluable."

"We kindly ask the media and the public to refrain from spreading speculation or engaging in sensationalism. We understand the interest in Bradley Olivier's condition, but it is crucial to prioritise compassion and respect for the family's wishes."

"We remember Bradley Olivier for his remarkable talent, passion, and the positive influence he had on our lives."

Bradley Olivier, who has a 5-year-old daughter Kiara, studied at the Tshwane University of Technology from 2005 to 2007 and got his first on-screen role in 2007 after he won a nationwide talent search to find new actors for kykNET's first Afrikaans soapie Villa Rosa in which he played the character JJ.

Other roles include 7de Laan on SABC2 and High Rollers on SABC3, 4Play Sex Tips for Girls, Roer Jou Voete, Rockville, Vlug na Egipte, Sokhulu & Partners, Let Heaven Wait, Rockville, MTV Shuga Down South, Father's Matter, and Die Kasteel.

He's been part of the Binnelanders cast on kykNET for at least eight years.

In film, Bradley Olivier appeared on-screen in Bakgat! II and Bakgat! tot die Mag 3, Draadloos, Ballade vir 'n Enkeling, Nul is nie Niks Nie and Vaselinetjie.

Olivier started his production company Sturvey Pictures together with actor Solomon Cupido and their first film, Frankie & Felipe will make its debut at this year’s 11th kykNET Silwerskermfees next month in Camps Bay. 

Their production company is also producing three films for MultiChoice's streaming service Showmax.